Newcastle complete signing of goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Braga

Newcastle, currently without a permanent manager, announced Monday that they have signed Czech Republic goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese club Braga.

Hornicek has agreed to a five year contract after Newcastle triggered his 30 million euro release clause, a fee equivalent to roughly 25.7 million pounds or 34.6 million dollars. He becomes the club’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window.

The 24 year old, who is expected to challenge Nick Pope for the starting goalkeeper role, described the past few days as an emotional experience since first learning of the move, and said he is thrilled to have completed the transfer. He said he is aware of Newcastle’s reputation as a major football city, pointing to the roughly 52,000 fans who fill St James’ Park and create an atmosphere he said pushes the team in every match, adding that he is eager to play in front of them.

Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson said Hornicek has firmly established himself as one of the top young goalkeepers in Europe.

The signing comes during a turbulent period for the club. Eddie Howe stepped down as Newcastle manager last week after five years in charge, following a difficult campaign that saw the team finish 12th in the Premier League. The club has also faced a challenging summer transfer window on other fronts. Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali has completed a move to Tottenham, while England forward Anthony Gordon has departed for Barcelona. Captain Bruno Guimaraes has also been strongly linked with a switch to Premier League champions Arsenal.

Newcastle will open their Premier League season at home against Liverpool on August 23.